Welcome to the Jaz Granderson Foundation

Honoring the Life of Jaz Loron Granderson

Sunrise June 13, 1990 to Sunset October 16, 2017

Jaz was extremely well mannered and raised to respect his elders which showed to those that ever encountered him. He was very easy going and kept those around him calm. Jaz graduated from Kirkwood High School in 2008 where he was a standout on the football field and made an impact in other ways with students and teachers by showcasing his bright smile. Jaz was recruited by Harper College where he helped lead his team to the Junior College National Championship.

Jaz also attended the University of Northern Iowa where he played defensive back for two seasons as a special teams player. He finished his collegiate football career with Lindenwood University where his talents and commitment were noticed by the National Football League. Granderson was selected to try out for the Kansas City Chiefs. Jaz went on to serve as an assistant football coach for De Smet Jesuit High School where he was able to make a lasting impact in the lives of students and fellow coaches.

Jaz loved and cherished his father Johnny " Solo" Granderson who first connected him to giving back to his community and showed him how his impact off the field was more important. He took those lessons and used them to make a difference in the lives of those around him. Jaz established his charitable organization, The Jaz Granderson Foundation, which collects and distributes toys to over 300 children each Christmas. He also created Grand Camp to help young athletes increase speed and agility to stay on track with their athletics.

To cherish his memory, he leaves behind his dedicated father Johnny Granderson, Anne who was like a step-mother, his sister Jada Shenane, his brother Thorne Jeigh, his grandfather Ronald Spain (Kimberly), his loving grandmother Virginia Spain, a very special friend Casey Sanders, a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his De Smet Jesuit football family.

How You Can Help

To continue his legacy and make an impact in the community, we need your help! Contact us to find a location for our annual toy drive. If you are not able to attend, please donate $10 or more so that we may purchase a toy on your behalf.

Thank You

Whether you help through monetary donations, volunteering your time, or spreading our mission through word-of-mouth, thank you. We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you!

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Your generous gift will help us fund our mission to help those in need and give back to our community. Together, we can make a difference.